Education - Paraprofessional Instructional Assistant

Occupational Major

This major is primarily designed for job preparedness. Students
who are considering transferring to a four-year college should be aware that
decisions on transferability of courses are made by the four-year colleges
and differ from school to school. Students should contact the Transfer Services Office early in their academic program to determine which courses
will transfer to the college of their choice.

Leading to the Associate of Arts degree and a certificate of competency, this major prepares students to work effectively as instructional assistants in public and private schools in Pennsylvania.

Graduates are prepared to assist teachers and to secure teaching materials and equipment, check workbooks and homework, prepare profiles of student progress and record teacher-assigned grades, monitor testing situations, supervise student activities in the cafeteria and on the playground, assist students in the use of teaching machines and computers, and perform instructional services when delegated.

Graduates of this program are able to

implement a lesson under the supervision of the teacher.

describe modifications and accommodations to instruction for students with learning differences to accomplish instructional objectives;

demonstrate professional behavior when working with students, co-workers, and families; and

apply strategies as directed to facilitate effective integration of students with learning differences into various settings.

Recommended Semester Sequence

The recommended course sequence is designed for full-time students who average 15 credit hours per semester. Students may need more time to complete major requirements based on placement testing. This additional time will entail some adjustments to the sequence recommended.